Intensive care staff in 70k ultramarathon to raise funds for children’s hospital

Two intensive care workers will be running a 70k ultramarathon to raise money for the children’s hospital they work at.

Dietician Helen Penny, from Caerphilly, will take on the challenge alongside ward manager Suzanne Davies, in aid of Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital in Cardiff.

The Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity supports the hospital and helps raise money to fund projects such as the new neonatal intensive care unit, life-saving equipment and family support services.

Helen started working at the hospital in 2016 and quickly bonded with Suzanne over their shared passion for running.

However, despite the pair being seasoned runners, they have admitted to being daunted by the task, which will see them run from Brecon to Cardiff – clocking up 43 miles in the process.

In preparation, Helen and Suzanne have been running long and short distances and have changed their diet in order to be ready the challenge awaiting them.

Suzanne said: “Working on a children’s critical care unit by its very nature can be very tough but working during the pandemic has been particularly challenging. “

She said the charity had provided iPads to help families stay in touch during the pandemic, with only one parent allowed to stay with the child due to coronavirus restrictions.

Suzanne added: “The charity has also purchased many pieces of essential equipment to help us provide the best care possible for children, such as non-invasive ventilators. 

“They’ve been amazing and for us. We feel it is time to give something back. 

“The ultramarathon, all 70km of it, will be a huge challenge for both of us but we are looking forward to completing it and raising money for Noah’s Ark.”

Kath Fisher, community fundraising manager at the Noah’s Ark Charity says: “It’s always particularly humbling when our colleagues on the frontline choose to support the charity.

“Like everyone at the hospital, Suzanne and Helen have worked so hard during very challenging times and we’re so grateful to them for taking on this additional mammoth challenge. 

“The money they raise will go straight back in to helping them and their colleagues to provide the best care possible for the thousands of children and families who receive treatment at the hospital each year.” 

To make a donation to Helen and Suzanne’s cause, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/PCCU-NoahsArk